The Philippines Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has delivered two socio-civic centers in Maragusan and New Bataan, two mountainside towns in the province of Davao de Oro, frequently impacted by natural disasters.
The centers will act as community hubs to host activities and gatherings, as well as providing vital emergency shelter when required.
Previously, these areas have been reliant on school buildings for emergency evacuations but the new facilities will result in a reduction of classroom disruptions as well as further support for the local people.
Both venues have been made possible thanks to PHP 50m ($863,000) in financial support from PAGCOR.
The body is a 100% government-controlled and operated gambling regulator, set up as part of the crackdown against illicit casino operations in The Philippines under the reign of President Ferdinand Marcos.
Today, PAGCOR operates nine physical casino sites across the nation’s three major islands and a further 34 satellite casinos in significant urban centers and tourist hotspots.
Maragusan, a locality of around 65,000 residents, is prone to landslides meaning this facility is a very welcome development for the town., has long relied on public schools for emergency evacuations.
The new center will provide a dedicated safe space, preventing classroom disruptions during calamities.
Former Mayor Maricel Vendiola was an instrumental figure in the project, which commenced three years ago. He reflected on what it means for the people.
“This facility is a significant help to the locals who need to evacuate their homes during disaster situations,” he said.
“Classes in public schools will no longer be interrupted; at the same time, this structure will serve as a venue for promoting our local government’s projects and activities.”
DAVAO DE ORO – The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) recently inaugurated two socio-civic centers in the mountainside towns of Maragusan and New Bataan that are frequently hit by natural disasters.
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— Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (@pagcorph) February 5, 2025
Survived impact of earthquake during construction
These civic centers are a regular delivery aim for PAGCOR with 43 opened and a further 29 on the way in The Philippines.
In New Bataan, heavy flooding and landslides are a regular occurrence.
Its Mayor, Geraldford Balbin expressed his satisfaction at the completion of the facility, describing it as a long-standing community need.
“For years, we have dreamt of having a sturdy and comfortable building to serve as temporary shelter for our people during calamities,” he said.
“This project is a demonstration of PAGCOR’s commitment to address the needs of vulnerable communities.”
Balbin also detailed the strong resistance evidenced by the physical structure during a strong earthquake last year when it was still under construction. No cracks or significant damage to the walls were recorded, showing the quality and durability of the build.
Image credit: Via Midjourney
